The Extinct Files: My Science Project by Wallce Edwards

Wally uses the scientific method to prove to his science teacher that dinosaurs are not really extinct. Claiming that the illustrators drawings are "actual photographs," he makes astute observations about these non-extinct creatures. He shares information about habitat, diet, grooming, movement, etc.

This is a very creative way to present scientific method, using lots of humor (Glamorousaurus shows us grooming, "Tea Wrecks" hangs out at the coffee shop). The language used in the observations is very heavy in description and sticks to factual information.

It gets a little silly with its conclusion but all-in-all, a fun way to present some science themes creatively. Definately a picture book for middle school.

If You Were An Adjective, by Michael Dahl

Illus. by Sara Gray.

Adjectives tell us how things look, sound, feel or behave. Sometimes they are proper and sometimes they are comparative. The bright, textured acrylic illustrations are perfect for sharing and invite the reader to think of more describing words.

Grades 1-3

Winter is the Warmest Season, by Lauren Stringer

A young child shares how winter is the warmest season: hats with earflaps and fuzzy boots, grilled cheese and hot chocolate, and hot baths and pajamas with feet. Ice and snow frame the warm inside scenes of fireplaces, friends, and curled up cats in bright acrylic doublespread illustrations. The rich descriptive language contrasts the warmth of winter with summer cool downs. A delightful seasonal choice for sharing. Classrooms could use the book for a model for another book: "Summer is the coolest season," or other creative fun with opposites.